Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, but it also comes with its share of risks, some of which are preventable when diagnosed early. In Nigeria, where maternal and child mortality remains a pressing public health concern, proper antenatal care can be a lifesaving investment. One of the most important parts of this care is routine testing. These tests help monitor the health of both mother and baby, detect complications early, and guide timely medical intervention.
Whether you’re a first-time mum or experienced in this path, here are seven essential tests every pregnant woman in Nigeria should undergo for a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.
7 Must-Have Tests for Pregnant Women in Nigeria
1. HIV Screening Test
In Nigeria, HIV remains a significant health issue, with thousands of women of childbearing age living with the virus. The HIV screening test is a critical component of prenatal care as early detection allows for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). When diagnosed early, HIV-positive mothers can be placed on antiretroviral therapy (ART), reducing the risk of transmission to less than 1%.
When it’s done:
Ideally in the first trimester, and sometimes repeated in the third trimester for high-risk cases.
How it’s done:
A simple blood test at any general hospital, antenatal clinic, or approved laboratory.
Access in Nigeria:
Available in most government and private hospitals. Free under many national HIV/AIDS control programmes.
2. Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test
Hepatitis B is highly infectious and can be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. Babies infected at birth are at a high risk of developing chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis or liver cancer later in life. Fortunately, babies born to mothers who test positive can receive special immunisation and medication at birth to prevent infection.
When it’s done:
Early in pregnancy, usually at the first antenatal visit.
How it’s done:
A blood test to check for the presence of the hepatitis B surface antigen.
Access in Nigeria:
Widely available. Some antenatal packages in private hospitals include it.
3. Blood Group and Rhesus (Rh) Factor Testing
Knowing your blood group is essential for many reasons, especially in the event of bleeding, surgery, or delivery complications. More critically, Rh factor testing can prevent Rh incompatibility, a condition where an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive baby. This can trigger the mother’s immune system to attack the baby’s red blood cells in subsequent pregnancies, leading to severe complications or miscarriage.
When it’s done:
During the first antenatal visit.
How it’s done:
A standard blood test.
Preventive measure:
If the mother is Rh-negative and the baby is Rh-positive, she’ll receive an injection called Rh immunoglobulin (Rhogam) to prevent sensitisation.
4. Complete Blood Count (CBC) or Full Blood Count (FBC)
Anaemia is a common condition among pregnant women in Nigeria due to nutritional deficiencies, malaria, or parasitic infections. A CBC test helps detect the mother’s haemoglobin level, white blood cells, and platelet count. Low haemoglobin levels can increase the risk of preterm delivery and complications during labour. Platelet count is equally important for understanding the risk of bleeding disorders.
When it’s done:
First trimester and repeated in later trimesters if necessary.
How it’s done:
Blood sample taken and analysed in a lab.
What it detects:
Anaemia, infections, clotting disorders, or immune problems.
5. Urinalysis
A urine test may seem simple but is incredibly useful in detecting early signs of conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and proteinuria (protein in urine, a sign of kidney problems or hypertension in pregnancy). Infections left untreated can lead to premature labour, low birth weight, or kidney issues.
When it’s done:
At booking and repeated periodically throughout the pregnancy.
How it’s done:
Urine sample collected in a clean container and tested using a dipstick or lab analysis.
Red flags:
Presence of protein, glucose, ketones, or nitrites.
6. Syphilis Test (VDRL/RPR)
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that, if untreated, can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, or congenital syphilis in the newborn. Nigeria, like many other countries, still reports cases of syphilis during pregnancy. Routine testing enables early treatment with antibiotics, which is highly effective.
When it’s done:
During the first antenatal visit.
How it’s done:
Blood test known as VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) or RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin).
Treatment:
Penicillin injections, safe during pregnancy.
7. Malaria Parasite Test
Nigeria has one of the highest malaria burdens in the world, and pregnant women are especially vulnerable. Malaria can cause severe anaemia, miscarriage, stillbirth, and low birth weight. Testing for malaria, even in the absence of symptoms, is crucial, especially during the rainy season or in endemic zones.
When it’s done:
As part of initial antenatal investigations and anytime the mother presents symptoms such as fever, chills, or weakness.
How it’s done:
Blood smear microscopy or Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs).
Prevention tip:
Use of insecticide-treated nets, intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp), and environmental cleanliness.
Optional But Strongly Recommended Tests
While the seven tests above are considered essential, a few others are highly recommended depending on the mother’s health history, age, or exposure:
- Blood sugar test (OGTT) for gestational diabetes
- Ultrasound scans to monitor foetal development
- Rubella and toxoplasmosis screening, especially for women with cats or who work with children
- Thyroid function tests if there’s a history of hormonal disorders
Where to Get These Tests in Nigeria
Most of these tests are offered in:
- Federal and state general hospitals
- Tertiary teaching hospitals
- Registered antenatal clinics (private and public)
- Some community health centres
- Accredited diagnostic labs like Synlab, Pathcare, and Clinix
Prices may vary depending on the location, facility type, and whether the mother is accessing subsidised public care or private services. On average, a complete booking test package may cost between ₦10,000 and ₦50,000.
But the easier, faster, and more convenient way to get them done?
Visit MyMedicalBank.com.
MyMedicalBank connects you with trusted medical laboratories and healthcare providers across Nigeria, allowing you to book your pregnancy tests online and have them done either at a nearby lab or in the comfort of your home. From HIV screening to malaria parasite tests and full antenatal panels, you can access reliable diagnostics without the long queues or hospital stress.
Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or even a remote location, MyMedicalBank makes maternal care more accessible and affordable. All you need is your phone and internet connection to start your antenatal testing journey with ease.
Safe pregnancy starts with smart decisions; MyMedicalBank puts healthcare at your fingertips.
Final Thoughts: Your Health Is Your Power
Pregnancy is both a delicate and powerful time. The baby’s health is tied closely to the mother’s well-being. In Nigeria, where access to healthcare can be challenging in certain regions, awareness is the first step toward safe outcomes. Don’t wait for symptoms; take charge early. If you’re pregnant or planning to conceive, make these seven tests a non-negotiable part of your journey. They might seem basic, but they hold the power to protect two lives: yours and your baby’s.
Remember, prevention is always better, safer, and cheaper than cure.
